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Shanghai - Economy, Business & Society
$6+ Million in Scholarships & Aid
Academics
Our mission is simple: to provide you with the best study abroad program possible—which includes the highest quality academic and cultural experiences.
We offer unique courses that explore Chinese language, international relations, business, and culture through an in-depth and hands-on approach. World-class professors and course options enhance your academic experience and provide you with new perspectives each day in class.
Create your own academic experience by selecting from the following program components.
You take 15-18 credits per semester.
- IES Abroad Chinese language course (required, 4 credits) Developed exclusively for our students, these language courses are offered at varying language proficiency levels, from beginning to advanced.
- IES Abroad Business Chinese elective course (optional, 3 credits, must be placed in 300-level Chinese or above)
- English-taught IES Abroad area studies courses (optional, 3 credits each)
- English-taught Fudan University courses (optional, 3 credits)
Academic Highlights
Beyond the classroom, coursework is supplemented by the following academic opportunities:
- Academic lectures in Shanghai and the location of your course-related trip (possibly Seoul or Tokyo) provide an intercultural comparative analysis
- Visits to the stock exchanges and key investment or economic development offices
- Observations of elementary and secondary schools
- Panel discussions on Chinese politics and economics
- Visits to active religious institutions and cultural areas of interest in Shanghai and the location of your course-related trip
Courses
These courses are taught at the IES Abroad Center by local faculty. All courses are able to be offered both fall and spring semesters and are 3 credits unless otherwise noted. Course availability varies from term to term.
To learn more about IES Abroad’s innovative theoretical and pedagogical approaches to teaching language abroad, refer to the IES Abroad MAP for Language & Intercultural Communication.
| Course Name | Term | Language | Credits |
|---|---|---|---|
| RL/AS/PH 120 - An Introduction to Classical Chinese Philosophy and Religion | Fall, Spring | English | 3 |
| Course Name | Term | Language | Credits |
|---|---|---|---|
| CM 373 - Intercultural Communications Competence (formerly CM 395 - Intercultural Communications Competence) | Fall, Spring | English | 3 |
| Course Name | Term | Language | Credits |
|---|---|---|---|
| CU/IB 371 - Business Culture in China (formerly IB 395 - Business Practice in China) | Fall, Spring | English | 3 |
| Course Name | Term | Language | Credits |
|---|---|---|---|
| EC/PO 325 - Chinese Economy and Politics: Transition and Development | Fall, Spring | English | 3 |
| Course Name | Term | Language | Credits |
|---|---|---|---|
| CU/IB 371 - Business Culture in China (formerly IB 395 - Business Practice in China) | Fall, Spring | English | 3 |
| IB 365 - Global Supply Chain Management | English | 3 |
| Course Name | Term | Language | Credits |
|---|---|---|---|
| PO/IR 340 - International Politics in East Asia from a Chinese Perspective | Fall, Spring | English | 3 |
| Course Name | Term | Language | Credits |
|---|---|---|---|
| RL/AS/PH 120 - An Introduction to Classical Chinese Philosophy and Religion | Fall, Spring | English | 3 |
| Course Name | Term | Language | Credits |
|---|---|---|---|
| EC/PO 325 - Chinese Economy and Politics: Transition and Development | Fall, Spring | English | 3 |
| PO/IR 340 - International Politics in East Asia from a Chinese Perspective | Fall, Spring | English | 3 |
| Course Name | Term | Language | Credits |
|---|---|---|---|
| RL/AS/PH 120 - An Introduction to Classical Chinese Philosophy and Religion | Fall, Spring | English | 3 |
The following are potential course options at Fudan University:
- The Transitional Chinese society
- The Chinese Marketplace; Globalization and Local Transformation
- Global Sourcing and Supply Chain Management in China
- China through Contemporary Chinese Film
- International Marketing
- Political Economy in China
- Doing Business in China
- Religion in Chinese Society
- Psychology and Life
Partner Institution(s)
From the Spring 2021 semester onward, students will likely have the opportunity to take courses at Fudan University, one of the top universities in China.
Fudan University
fudan.edu.cn/en/
Founded in 1905, Fudan University is rated one of the top three universities in mainland China and offers undergraduate, Masters, and Ph.D. programs, with strengths in Arts, Sciences, and Business. The University enrolls 34,000 students, of which 2,200 are international students. Fudan’s campus has unique architecture that includes traditional Chinese-style buildings and gates, as well as European-influenced structures, and the very modern Guanghua Twin Towers. Economy, Business & Society students can enroll in multiple English-taught courses with Chinese students at Fudan University.
Shanghai Jiao Tong University
http://en.sjtu.edu.cn/
Shanghai Jiao Tong University (SJTU) is one of the top universities in China, and is a member of the C9 League (the Chinese equivalent of the Ivy League).
The Economy, Business & Society Program is located on the Xuhui campus of SJTU, about four miles from the Center and easily accessible by nearby public transit. This means that all of your IES Abroad-taught courses take place at SJTU, but you will not enroll in any SJTU courses. Note: IES Abroad is the only U.S. program on this campus, giving you the opportunity to get to know local students and bringing you much closer to the central part of Shanghai.
Field Trips & Events
Even though your adventure starts in Shanghai, our field trips and excursions take you beyond the city to discover the culture and traditions of your host country. You are fully responsible for all costs associated with these field trips. Below are a few possible destinations.
Field Trips
HUANGSHAN (YELLOW MOUNTAIN)
3 DAYS | FALL & SPRING
Yellow Mountain is one of the most famous and beautiful mountainous areas in China. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Yellow Mountain features spectacular natural scenery including oddly shaped pines and rocks, and mystical seas of clouds. Hike, visit an ancient village, and explore the Tunxi old street.
TAISHAN
3 DAYS | FALL & SPRING
Taishan Mountain, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is located in the Shandong Province. Mount Tai is known as the eastern mountain of the Five Great Mountains of China, and is often regarded as the most significant of the five. Mount Tai has been a place of worship for more than 3,000 years and served as one of the most important ceremonial centers of China during large portions of this period.
HANGZHOU
2 DAYS | FALL & SPRING
Hangzhou, the capital of Zhejiang Province, is known as “Heaven on Earth” with its stunning natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. It was described by Marco Polo as “the finest and most splendid city in the world,” recently listed in The New York Times "Top 52 Places to Go" by The New York Times. Hangzhou is one of the Seven Ancient Capital Cities, with a history of about 2,500 years. The main attractions include the West Lake, Lingyin Buddhist Temple, and Chinese Dragon Well Tea Village.
NANJING
2 DAYS | FALL & SPRING
The capital of Jiangsu Province, Nanjing lies on the south bank of the Yangtze River and is one of the most delightful destinations in China. Known as the capital city of many dynasties in ancient Chinese history, it has a brilliant cultural heritage. During the trip, you will visit the Presidential Palace, Purple Mountain, Mausoleum of Dr. Sun Yat-Sen, and enjoy the night view of Confucius Temple Bazaar.
CHINESE WATER TOWN
1 DAY | FALL & SPRING
Explore one of the water towns outside of Shanghai, such as Tongli, Nanxun, or Wuzhen. Often referred to as "Chinese Venice," these towns have small crisscrossing river lanes spanned by nearly 50 bridges. These bridges are regarded as sacred architecture by the local people. This trip is included in the program cost, with the exception of personal expenses.
NOTE: IES Abroad field trip destinations, activities, and lengths of stay may vary according to term and availability.
You also have a few long weekends to make plans to travel independently to other cities in China to provide contrast and context for what you’re learning in Shanghai.
Course Related Trips
Course-related trips are academic trips associated with courses. They are organized to complement IES Abroad courses and contribute to a general knowledge of Chinese culture and society. Participation is based on course registration. This extended course-related trip is included in the program cost. You may visit one of the locations below.
SEOUL
5-7 Days
Visit the energetic and modern city of Seoul. There you will learn about South Korea’s development by taking in historic sites and interacting with university students, among other activities. Organized lectures will cover business leadership and global economy. You will also have free time to explore the city.
TOKYO
5-7 DAYS
Explore the bustling city of Tokyo. Your trip will include visits to businesses, a factory tour, a stop at the Imperial Palace, and a day tour to Mount Fuji. Attend lectures by leading academics and professionals on Japanese business and international relations.
Extended Program-Related Trip
Even though your adventure starts in Shanghai, our optional field trips take you outside the city to discover the culture and traditions of your host country and beyond. With the exception of Tongli, you are fully responsible for all costs associated with these field trips. Below are a few possible destinations.
Daily Life
Part of making you feel at home in Shanghai is doing our best to help you feel safe and cared for. Whether it’s the orientation program that prepares you for what’s ahead, your housing that is well located and comfortable, or a field trip that takes you to places that enrich your cultural and academic learning—we’re all about our student services.
Orientation
Our Comprehensive Orientation & Re-Entry Experience (CORE™) begins when you arrive and continues through the semester with activities focusing on academic and cultural adjustment. Detailed information about housing, public transportation, culture, health and safety, and other important topics are also covered.
The program begins with a specially designed, three-day orientation introducing you to the IES Abroad staff, your fellow students, health and safety procedures, the current social and political conditions in China, the expectations of you as a student in a Chinese institution, and the city of Shanghai.
Beyond orientation sessions, you will explore the city with a scavenger hunt designed to help you feel at home in your new environment. Feel prepared to begin classes with practical Chinese lessons and activities designed to help you learn your way around campus facilities. Additional cross-cultural and re-entry information and support is provided throughout the semester.
You also take a day trip to one of China's "Water Towns," Tongli, which is included in your program cost.
Housing
We want to make sure that your greatest challenge is deciding which landmarks to see first or discovering the best café—not finding a place to live where you feel comfortable. We do our best to locate housing that is reflective of how the local students are living. Our goal is that when you leave Shanghai, it will feel like home.
Apartments - Live in an apartment with other IES Abroad students at the modern New Harbour Service Apartments (where the IES Abroad Shanghai Center is located). Amenities include an indoor swimming pool, fitness center, sauna, and jacuzzi. It is five subway stops from the historic Xuhui campus of Shanghai Jiao Tong University.
A standard, fully furnished apartment has two or three bedrooms with one or two bathrooms and a kitchen. You may share a double bedroom with another IES Abroad student or a limited number of single rooms are available for an additional fee.
This option does not include a meal plan, but you can cook for yourself, eat in campus cafeterias, or at affordable nearby restaurants.
Homestays – Homestays offer the ideal environment for learning about China and improving your Chinese. While living in a local home may require an initial adjustment period, our Chinese homestay families are eager to get to know you and share their ideas, language, and culture.
You have a private bedroom and are provided two meals a day by your host family (breakfast and dinner) five days a week while the program is in session
PLEASE NOTE: Homestay opportunities are limited.
Extracurricular Activities & Cultural Events
Redefine the way you live and learn in Shanghai through our cultural activities, such as:
- Joining student clubs
- Volunteering for community service
- Watching professional soccer, baseball, and basketball teams
- Boating on the Huangpo River
- Visiting local museums and historic sites
University Clubs & Events
While in Shanghai, you can take advantage of available on-campus activities. Clubs are student run and provide an excellent opportunity for increased campus integration. Past clubs have included:
- Explorer Volunteers Association (Provides assistance to disadvantaged groups in rural areas)
- Air & Health (Environmental Protection Association)
- Management Association
- Modern Dance (Reggea, hiphop, jazz, tap)
- Shaolong Kungfu
- Sports (Badmintin, tennis, vollyball, baseball, cycling, and more)
- Music PlayGround
- Photography Association
- Drama Club
- Taichi
Get to Know Your New City
Enjoy Local Festivals
Immerse yourself in Chinese customs and traditions at the Lantern Festival in the spring semester or the Shanghai Tourism Festival in the fall.
Eat & Shop in Xintiandi
Explore Xintiandi’s North and South Blocks, where the past meets present in this chic shopping and dining district.
Go on a Huangpu River Night Cruise
Take a boat ride around the Bund to see the beauty of Shanghai architecture in all its glory!
Visit Yuyuan Garden & City God Temple Bazaar
See the extensive Chinese garden with its classic architecture, beautiful sculptures and carvings, then walk the photogenic Nine-Bend Bridge that connects the two to shop and dine at the Bazaar.
Visit Shanghai Disneyland
It is a small world after all! Plan a trip to the famous Disney theme park, filled with attractions you know and love, and new ones, too.
Program Cost
Consider these prices as a starting point. We encourage you to contact your study abroad office to determine the actual cost to you when factoring in financial aid, scholarships, your home school policies, and other factors.
Scholarships & Aid
Program-Specific Scholarships
John Gearen Need-Based Dublin or Developing Regions Scholarship
John Gearen, a member of the IES Abroad Board of Directors for many years and past chair of the Board for six years, is a leading real estate attorney and Rhodes Scholar who is involved in numerous philanthropic causes. Mr. Gearen has generously established this scholarship to support students who have an interest in studying on an IES Abroad Center in a developing region of the world (Argentina, Chile, China, Ecuador, Ireland, Morocco, or South Africa).
Robert McNeill Need-Based International Business Scholarship
This scholarship is named in honor of Robert McNeill, member of the IES Abroad Board of Directors for 25 years (6 years as Chairman). Open to students who have an interest in international business. Majors might include management, marketing, economics, finance, international relations, and social and behavioral sciences.
Use our budget worksheet to calculate your costs
$6+ Million in Scholarships & Aid
Our Center
While in Shanghai, we want to ensure that you have every opportunity to immerse yourself in new experiences. That's why our IES Abroad Shanghai Center is committed to providing outstanding academic and student support services. We take care of the details, so you can soak up every moment of your Shanghai experience.
The Shanghai Center is located in New Harbor Service Apartments - the same building as the Economy, Business & Society student apartments - in the heart of central Shanghai. You can easily access all parts of the city from the Center, via Shanghai's extensive subway and bus system.
Our Center is your connection point for all things IES Abroad:
- Meet up with friends and relax between classes in the lounge area
- Work on projects or homework in the library and study space
- Enjoy your orientation sessions or a class in the Center's classroom (all other Economy, Business, and Society courses will be on SJTU's campus).
- Meet with staff in their offices to ask questions, discuss academics, or just say hello!
Other features include: WiFi and printing facilities
Our Staff
Qinbo "James" Gao
Center Director
Director/CoordinatorQinbo "James" Gao has been involved in international education for many years. Prior to joining IES Abroad Shanghai as the Center Director, he was the Director of the International Affairs Office (IAO) at Shanghai Jiao Tong University (SJTU)-Shanghai Advanced Institute of Finance (SAIF). He joined SAIF in 2009 as a founding member for the institution, which is a collaboration between the Shanghai Municipal Government (SMG) and SJTU.
Before joining SAIF, James worked at the Chinese Europe International Business School (CEIBS) as Accreditations & International Programs Manager. He started his career as an English lecturer at Tongji University, where he received “Junior Teacher Awards” in 1998 and 1999, based upon student voting and academic reviews.
James received his bachelor’s degree from the International Studies University in Xi’an, and his M.A. in Tourism Administration from The George Washington University School of Business. He is a candidate for the Doctorate of Education at the University of Nottingham (China Campus), focusing on practical research in higher education.
IES Abroad Shanghai Staff
Lihong Yang
Assistant Director
Yun Ge
Program Assistant
Shuo Han
Academic and Chinese Language Coordinator
Jiaxin Qui
Internship and Student Affairs Manager
Health & Safety
With 70 years of experience, we are proud to set the standard for health and safety in study abroad. Our Chicago-based and on-site staff are all highly trained and experienced in the matters of health, safety, and crisis management. We are here for you from predeparture to your return, and are ready to support you—no matter what time zone you’re in.
In response to COVID-19, enhanced safety guidelines will be implemented this year—such as social distancing and personal protective equipment (PPE) in on-site classes, in-country field trips and travel only, and apartment or residence hall housing (no homestays) that ensures proper space should self-quarantining be necessary.
How We Support You
We plan for "what if" so that you don't have to. From international health insurance included in the cost of your program to highly-trained local staff who can connect you to English-speaking healthcare providers, we are working around the clock to ensure your health and safety while abroad.
Learn more about the support you can expect to receive on our programs, including:
- International health insurance through CISI in the case you need to see a doctor or mental health professional
- 24/7 emergency support whether you encounter an issue while traveling or in your host city
- Location-specific health and safety information presented at orienation by on-site staff
- TripTracker system allowing you to share independent travel plans in case you need to be contacted swiftly in a crisis
- A mandatory cell phone policy so that you can be contacted locally and receive any emergency updates via call or text
- Crisis drills so that you feel prepared to respond to an emergency should one arise
- And more!
Health & Safety Resources
You safety begins with being accurately informed from the moment you're considering study abroad through to the day you return home.
Take note of ways you can maintain your health and stay safe abroad while reviewing our resources, including:
- IES Abroad MAP for Student Health, Safety & Crisis Management
- Study Abroad Safety Tips for Traveling
- IES Abroad Student Blogs on Safety and Mental Health
- And more!
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